I'm starting to read numerous press releases written by troops in the field in Iraq, that cover what they are doing in their base camps and elsewhere, that are somewhat different (fortunately) than what they were doing a year ago. With the new status agreement between the Iraqi government and the U.S. that took effect January 1st, the Iraqi's are finally taking responsibility for their own force protection, with coalition forces in a back-up role…when asked to do so.
Meanwhile, our troops are "training" in their base camp to keep their battle skills ready to go, plus are engaging in other activities that you'd expect to see in a more peaceable environment. While the danger of attack, and instances of deadly violence have not gone away, what we're seeing over there (overall) is very positive in my view.
